Pallet Stretch Wrap Specialty Packaging Films

Pallet stretch wrap was first introduced in the 1970s and quickly became the preferred method of pallet unitization. Forty years later, film is still the preferred approach for general purpose as well as highly specialized applications. Thanks to steady technical innovations in manufacturing, specialty films have been developed for very specific uses that allow companies to solve complex packaging problems or eliminate costly methods of unitization, saving substantial cost and reducing labor. Here are examples of films that are available for special purposes.

Types of Specialty Films

Wide width films are used on wide web pallet stretch wrap machines. Unlike films applied to pallets on spiral machines, wide films do not move up and down a carriage. They are available in widths of 35" up to over 96", and are typically used on very tall loads that do not require a great deal of holding force applied to them. The advantages of wide films are faster unitizing and in some cases reduced film cost. UV inhibiting films contain additives that prevent the film from degrading due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. These films are used to wrap materials that are stored outdoors, such as construction materials, horticultural products, and even hay bales. Opaque pallet stretch wrap, available in a wide assortment of colors, is used for masking product identification, which can be critical for the shipment of consumer electronics items, medical / pharmaceuticals, furniture, and other materials that are highly vulnerable to theft. Stretch netting is used when ventilation is required. It is widely used for the wrapping of fruits, vegetables, and other fresh food products. Stretch netting can be applied in hand held rolls or on many standard wrapping machines.

One Side Cling Pallet Stretch Wrap

Stretch film naturally clings to itself. Although this characteristic is crucial because it prevents film from unraveling after being applied to the pallet, it causes problems in certain applications. For instance, if a standard film is used to wrap pallets of bagged material such as fertilizer or dirt, and the pallets are tightly packed in storage or on the truck, operators will disrupt neighboring loads when they move a particular pallet, or be unable to move it at all. One side cling film eliminates this problem by being sticky on one side – the inward facing side – and non-sticky on the outside. Now, tightly packed loads can be moved in and out of position with ease. These films tremendously increase productivity and prevent product damage and costly repackaging. Some products in this category are not true one side cling films – over time, tackifiers will migrate from one side of the film to the other. A true one side cling film includes a barrier that prevents this from happening. Some applications require a true one side cling product, but others do not. Heritage Pioneer can assist in the selection of the right film for any industrial or agricultural wrapping application. Let us aid you in your Pallet Stretch Wrap selection.

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